Maldives signs MoU with ILO for protection of workers’ rights

Maldives has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Labor Organization (ILO) to implement the organization's Decent Work Country Program (DWCP) 2025-2031.

The MoU was signed between Ministry of Higher Education, Labor and Skills Development and ILO.

According to the Ministry, the primary aim of the MoU is to promote dignified employment programs in the Maldives, uphold workers’ rights, and foster a fair, inclusive, and non-discriminatory workplace.

The Ministry stated that all parties to the MoU have agreed to cooperate in the implementation of the Decent Work Country Program (DWCP) 2025-2031 specific for the Maldives. The Ministry added that the program will support all segments of the labor market, to pave the way to advance Maldives’ economic and social development.

Three focus areas under the DWCP:

• Promoting shared prosperity and inclusive human development for all
• Strengthening the application of international labor standards by incorporating them into gender and class-equality-focused national policies and legislation
• Enhance gender-responsive tripartite and social dialogue systems, including their procedures and capacities

The Ministry stated that the MoU is expected to help the Maldives comply with international labor standards, while the program will play a key role in promoting worker safety and fairness. The Ministry described the agreement as a significant step toward strengthening the country’s employment sector.